Criminals nowadays employ various tactics, including eavesdropping devices, to steal sensitive information such as bank account details and phone data. This enables them to withdraw money from your accounts or blackmail you with personal information.
Suspicious signs that your phone is being tapped:
Battery drains faster than usual: If your phone’s battery life suddenly decreases without any apparent reason, such as hardware issues or increased usage, it could be a sign of eavesdropping software running in the background, consuming more power and causing the device to heat up and drain the battery abnormally fast.
Strange noises during calls: If you experience unusual noises like beeps or interference during regular calls, it might indicate a weak signal or a possible tapping. If you’re in an area with good reception and there are no apparent issues with your call, be cautious and investigate further.
Phone turns on and off automatically, especially at night: If your phone turns on and off unexpectedly, it could be a sign that someone is remotely accessing your device. This phenomenon often occurs at night, when you’re less likely to notice.
Mobile data depletes quickly, and internet speed slows down: Similar to the rapid battery drain, your phone’s mobile data may also deplete faster than usual due to the constant data usage by the eavesdropping software. If you notice a sudden decrease in your mobile data balance and experience slower internet speeds, your device might be compromised.
Phone suddenly overheats: Eavesdropping software can overload your phone, causing it to overheat. If your phone gets hot when you’re not using it extensively, it could indicate that someone is remotely accessing your device. Close any unnecessary apps and reduce your phone usage to see if the overheating stops. If it continues even when you’re not actively using the phone, it might be due to the eavesdropping software straining the hardware.
Receiving strange text messages: Be cautious if you start receiving unusual text messages. Malicious actors might send coded messages to communicate with the eavesdropping software installed on your phone, allowing them to extract information.
Tips to address the issue immediately and minimize damage:
If you suspect that your phone is being tapped, take the following steps:
If your iPhone has been jailbroken or your Android device has been rooted, eavesdropping software could have been installed from sources other than the official app stores. In such cases, even iPhones, known for their robust security, become vulnerable. Check for apps like Cydia, Icy, Installer, Installous, and SBSettings. If found, restore your phone to factory settings or consider getting a new device if it contains sensitive information.
Manually search for eavesdropping software:
Criminals often disguise eavesdropping software with deceptive names. Go to Settings > Apps and scrutinize each app for any unusual activity. If you find any suspicious apps that you didn’t install, uninstall them immediately.
Reset your phone to its default settings:
Restoring your phone to its factory settings is the quickest way to get rid of any potential eavesdropping software. However, remember to back up important data before performing this action to avoid data loss.
Use antivirus software:
Consider purchasing and installing antivirus software for your phone to detect and remove malicious programs, including eavesdropping software. This will protect your device from external threats and unauthorized access.
Be vigilant and protect your phone from eavesdropping:
When in public places, avoid leaving your phone unattended on tables. Enable multiple layers of security, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, to safeguard your device. Stay cautious when installing new apps and configuring settings. It’s best to avoid lending your phone to strangers and be cautious when downloading applications.
How to detect a phone hack and what to do to immediately fix it
The insidious nature of mobile device hacking poses significant threats to data security. Recognizing the criticality of early detection, this guide empowers you with the knowledge to identify telltale signs of malicious activity. By implementing the strategies outlined within, you can proactively safeguard your device and thwart the nefarious intentions of cybercriminals.